Open World Off-Road Racer Dakar 18 Announced for PS4, XB1, and PC

We already think 2018 is on track for a fantastic year. Every time we think it can’t get any better, something new comes along. The latest reason for our ever-growing excitement? Dakar 18 by Bigmoon Studios.

Hot on the heels of the official kick-off to the 2018 Dakar Rally, this announcement is about as aptly timed as it gets.

Perhaps the most exciting potential feature is the game world itself. With a stated 5,800 sq miles of open terrain to roam around in, it should make Dakar 18 the biggest racing game ever—literally.

The current record holder for this title is Fuel, which hit shelves in 2009. While it wasn’t the most thrilling game, it did have a map size of 5,560 sq miles. Or to put it another way, roughly the same size as Connecticut.

Sadly, a large map doesn’t always equal excitement. But with a majority of the Dakar Rally taking place over desert terrain, expect hundreds of miles of challenging sand to take up the map. There are signs of increased variety in the trailer too, which shows both mountains and forests.

Another potential feature that has us excited includes being able to get out of your vehicle. While this is nothing new for open world games, it’s pretty rare for a title claiming to be a simulator.

The reason behind exiting the vehicle is pretty cool too. Apparently, it’s how you’ll need to fix your vehicle when it takes damage.

Unfortunately, the trailer doesn’t answer anything with regards to features. However, a little snippet in the trailer’s description offers up some info.

According to Bigmoon Studios, gamers can expect major manufacturers, drivers, and teams to be represented across all five classes. Dakar 18 will also feature a single player mode along with both on and offline multiplayer.

Finally, the last bit of good news is that Dakar 18 will be available for the Xbox One, PS4, and on PC through Steam.

There’s no word on a release date yet, but we will let you know when one’s announced. With both Gravel and Onrush on the horizon, expect Dakar 18 to be right there in the mix.